Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Daniel Lee Brookman
Daniel Lee Brookman
Obituary
Guest Book
Daniel Brookman Obituary
Dan, originally from Narrows, VA, graduated from the NNS Apprentice School in 1976 as a machinist. He was a Master Shipbuilder with 43 years of service, most of those years spent at the Apprentice School dedicated to nurturing success for all apprentices. Dan was a First UMC Fox Hill member, a Fox Hill Volunteer Fire Dept Lifetime Member, Waverly Hunt Club Member, Troop 84 BSA Assistant Scoutmaster, and commissioner, coach, and mentor for many others.
He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kathy; children, Katie (Brian), Lee (Gary), Donnie (Tyler); grandchildren, Adalynn and Elliott; his father, Donald (Pat); siblings, Dave (Susan), Amy (Tim), Joe, Scott (Teresa), Jimmy (Gail), Annette, Mike; with 18 nieces and nephews and 15 great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Catherine.
The family will receive friends Sunday, September 19, 1 PM at First UMC Fox Hill, followed by a memorial service at 2 PM. The memorial service will be live-streamed at www.firstumcfoxhill.org.
Donations can be made to the Apprentice School Foundation at tasfd.org or 1st UMC Fox Hill.
Arrangements by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Edwin Smith
September 18, 2023
Many good memories of Dan.
Ed Smith
September 18, 2022
LOTS of good memories with Danny at the Apprentice School for many years.
David Barringer Retired NNS Material
September 18, 2022
He was a class act as a person and as a master shipbuilder. It was my pleasure to have known him. Most of all he was a caring and dedicated NNS associate. He cared deeply about people.
Very Respectfully Dave Barringer
Michael E Brookman
September 22, 2021
I knew Dan Brookman for many years when I worked in Newport News Shipbuilding. He always greeted me with a smile and called me "Cuz" because we had the same last name but we not related. The joke was our genes may have crossed somewhere in West Virginia. Dan was a good man. I am proud to have known him. My condolences to his brother David and the rest of his family. We will truly miss him.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Mary Baker
September 21, 2021
Kathy, I am so truly sorry to hear about Danny. I realize there are no sufficient words at a time like this, but know that you and your family are are in my thoughts and prayers.
Brian Scarsdale
September 20, 2021
Mr. Brookman was one of the best and fairest instructors at the Apprentice school. He treated everyone equally and helped me to get where I'm at in my career and life. A great example for all to follow.
G
September 20, 2021
So sorry to hear about your loss. You know that God and Jesus are in the best position to comfort us when we lose a loved one in death.
Joseph M. Tatum
September 19, 2021
Dan Brookman, Kathy and their children were wonderful, supportive and a "giving" family when I knew them at Asbury School. He was just a very good man and a great example for others.
May God give this wonderful family peace and strength in Dan's passing.
Edwin Smith
September 19, 2021
Dannie and I worked together for many years in for The Apprentice School. We shared many good memories and played a part in training many good apprentices. A great guy to work with.
Melvis Strout
September 19, 2021
You will always be remembered for your kindness and joy.
Margaret Williams
September 19, 2021
Dan ('Danny") will live forever in our hearts.
We extend sincere condolences to all of his family & community.
Ron Liles
September 19, 2021
I had the honor of knowing and working with Danny Brookman for more than 40 years. I could not have asked for a better leader or role model. I often tell folks how fortunate I was to have worked for such an incredible person during my tenure at the shipyard. My heart goes out to his entire family, and especially to his brother Dave (who worked with me as an electrical apprentice back in 1974). Danny was the epitome of a gentleman and leader. His calm nature and willingness to listen to any concerns was one of his greatest attributes. I have lost a great friend and colleague, but I know he is now with his Lord and Savior. I know his family is proud of all that Danny accomplished in his life. Good job, my friend! We will all miss you...
Jim Simms
September 19, 2021
I hardly know what to say. My heart is breaking for the Brookman family. Danny was one of the best friends that I could have ever asked for in my life. A true man of God who loved and cared for his family and friends like no other. We were roommates during our time in the A School and he and his family accepted me like one of their own. I will always cherish the memories of our trips to Narrows and Blacksburg, our family gatherings at Christmas, and just knowing he was there. My deepest condolences and love go out to Kathy, Katie, Lee, Donnie and especially Dave and the entire family. I love you all and know that Dan is with his Mother today. God Bless you all. Jim
Michele Melson Ferk
September 19, 2021
I still remember the last time I saw Danny. It was several years ago at Gosnolds where he took his grandkids to play after school. I hadn’t seen him much though the years but very fondly remember the Sunday’s at youth group and the great memories I have being at your house especially carving pumpkins at Halloween. Take comfort in knowing we will all see him again one day and he is looking down on us.
Chris Davis
September 18, 2021
I worked with my mentor Danny since 1986 when we were both promoted to our positions with O22 The Apprentice School. A wonderful Man of God and a blessing in my life. Prayers of comfort to his amazing family.
Nancy Terrell
September 18, 2021
I have wonderful memories of Dan and Kathy hosting the youth group at their house for fun and fellowship. The kids had so much fun using the zip line and enjoying being together. His dedication to the youth involvement will be remembered! May God bring comfort to his family!
Ed Smith
September 18, 2021
many good memories working with Danny. Ma God be with the family.
Marvin and Pam Taylor
September 18, 2021
It was our pleasure to know Danny. He touched many lives during his years and his guidance led many including our son Trey to broaden their education through the Apprentice School. We will be forever grateful for his mentoring and leadership. He leaves priceless memories with so many that reach far beyond his loving family. Prayers for comfort for the Brookman family.
David & Shirley Smith-King
September 18, 2021
Our hearts were truly saddened when we learned about Danny´s passing. Danny was indeed a loved, respected, kind and compassionate spirit that dwelt among us. My fondest memory of Danny is when I saw who I thought was Danny at an event and he didn´t recognize me. When I told my Supervisor at that time (Opal LeMaster), that I had seen Danny at this event and he didn´t recognize me, she said, "Oh you probably saw his twin brother David!" We are so thankful for the opportunity to have known and worked with such a great gift from God. We know that his legacy will live on through his family, friends and those who were blessed to have known him. For nothing that we love is ever lost and Danny was loved so much. Our deepest condolences to Kathy and the family! "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." Matthew 5:4
Pamela Wilburn Dunn
September 18, 2021
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Jim Wallace
September 18, 2021
I hardly know where to begin and end in a remembrance of one of the finest people it has ever been my pleasure and great fortune to know. A bright, thoughtful, genuinely kind man of faith and exemplary leader by action and example. A wonderful colleague at work and a loyal, thoughtful dear friend to me in the days since. My deepest sympathy to Kathy and family. Many have suffered a significant loss in his passing, but none more than those he loved deeply and by whom was so deeply loved in return. May God’s Grace comfort you in this difficult time. I am sure Danny has already heard his Creator welcome him with the words, “Well done good and faithful servant.”
Gus Cummings
September 18, 2021
Condolences and prayers to Brookman family. A lot of great memories growing up with all the Brookman 'kids' in Narrows.
Robert Chappell
September 18, 2021
Danny was the epitome of a true gentleman. Always true to his faith and always willing to help. If ever there was a role model Danny would be it. Peace be with the Brookman Family.
Vickie Zuniga
September 18, 2021
Danny was such a fantastic person! He was always nice, friendly, helpfull and personable. He treated everyone as a friend and always had a smile and a kind word. He was a wonderful person, boss, leader and friend. He spoke so highly of his "bride" Kathy, family and grand kids. He will be deeply missed by so many at The Apprentice School. I feel honored to have know him and strive to be more like him every day. My prayers go out to the family. May God comfort you all.
Larry Jameson
September 18, 2021
Dan was very genuine and always a gentleman. I was lucky enough to be able to say he was my friend. I know heaven became a better place when he arrived. Prayers for his family.
Gene Eaton
September 18, 2021
May peace be with the Brookman family.
Tony Jones
September 18, 2021
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Danny was a great person and mentor at the Apprentice School and in life. It truly saddens me to here if his passing. May you find comfort in the fact he now with the lord.
Brett Farmer
September 18, 2021
Love and prayers for everyone. So sorry for your loss. I will always remember growing up and camping with the Brookman family. So many fun times we all had at the lake. Prayers for comfort during this time.
Stan Best
September 18, 2021
Danny was a great guy and a good friend. His guiding approach to Apprentices and others in the community were unique and a blessing to witness. He always had a kind word and a smile regardless of the situation. He put people at ease like an apprentice (when I first met him) or a colleague (when we last worked together). I thank God for Danny and pray that He blesses all the family with only the good memories that Danny endears. He will be missed.
Gwen Wesson
September 18, 2021
We were sorry to hear about Danny. Our memories of him usually involved your family-such as youth group events or the spooky garage happening that our Megan remembers. Danny was a caring soul and his memory will live on through his family and friends. The Wessons
Millie Warren
September 18, 2021
Kathy,
Thoughts and prayers for you and your family during this difficult time.
Dave Barringer (Apprentice Grad 1975 & MSB)
September 18, 2021
Please remember him as the caring individual that all knew. He would always try to help all that needed his aid. So very sorry for our loss.
Jennifer Ryan
September 17, 2021
I am so sorry for your loss Kathy and Brookman family. Danny was such a kind and caring person! I first met Danny as a Webb winter work student in `96 and then had the pleasure of working with him at The Apprentice School 20 years later. I remember him when we made the move to the new building and the 100th anniversary celebration. He was always involved, supporting apprentices, at many events: graduation, the cardboard boat regatta, boat design competition, sporting events, and active with the foundation. I´m a better person for knowing him. Rest In Peace Danny, we will miss you.
Amy Brookman Ferrell
September 17, 2021
Dan is the most wonderful, kind and thoughtful brother and friend a sister could ever hope for . I am blessed beyond words to have shared my life and family with him . Dan has forever touched me in the generosity of his life to others . He truly thought of others before himself and He lived that belief and commitment every day of his life . I think of Danny in the passage in Philippians 1:21 “ For to me to live is Christ , and to die is gain” . We miss you , sweet Danny , but hold you forever in our hearts and lives. We will hold fast to the work before us and remain steady in faith , hope and love . Thank you for the beautiful example you have been to us and leads us forward.
Tim Ferrell
September 17, 2021
Dan -- a most wonderful brother-in-law who i cherished!
He embodied this wisdom and love:
" Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit but with humility of mind, regard one another as more important than yourself. Do not merely look out for your own personal interest but also for the interest of others
Philippians 2.3-4
autumn White
September 17, 2021
Mr.Brookman, or “G” as I knew him, was a wonderful person. He always had a smile on his face and obviously loved his family more than anything. His grandchildren adored him and treasured their time with him. The world has lost an amazing person but Heaven has gained a beautiful soul. I hope you’re all able to find peace and comfort in fond memories of him.
Larry Trent
September 17, 2021
To the family,
My condolences on your loss. May you find comfort and peace knowing that he loved you.
Steve Back
September 17, 2021
I am so sorry to hear about Danny's illness and his passing, the world will miss such a great man. He was one of my Apprentice instructors and I knew him well, and he was just such a wonderful teacher, and person to know. Danny was always willing to help someone through the rigors of the AAS program. I will pray for his family and friends, and I am so sorry for your loss.
David Conley
September 17, 2021
In loving memory of a high school friend
Hallie Armstrong
September 17, 2021
The family in our thoughts. I’m a friend of his son Donnie.
Amada Lee
September 17, 2021
It was an honor to have known such a wonderful gentleman. I hope you had a great experience every time you came to your ENT appointment. AMADA .
G
September 17, 2021
So sorry to hear about your loss. You know that God and Jesus are in the best position to comfort us when we lose a loved one in death.
Tom Kelly
September 17, 2021
Danny and I started the Apprentice School together in the Machine Shop and he was a great friend throughout the years. His wonderful manner, happy smile, and love for Jesus Christ were inspirational. He was a man full of love, truth, and hope for all. My deepest condolences to the entire family for their loss of a such a fine Christian man who the Lord has called home to everlasting life with our heavenly Father. God bless the family during this difficult time.
James Hughes
September 17, 2021
A professional colleague and personal friend, Danny was an outstanding example of servant leadership, respectful and supportive of others while accomplishing significant achievements and meeting difficult challenges. He made many contributions to The Apprentice School during his career. Probably the most notable and lasting was his leadership and coordination of construction of the new Apprentice School, which earned him the NNS President’s Model of Excellence Award. He once told me that his biggest career accomplishment was “being part of something bigger than all of us,” and that was The Apprentice School and the apprentice experience at Newport News Shipbuilding. I value the long-term relationship we had through The Apprentice School.
Equally impressive was his service to his community and to his church. But above all of these was his loving devotion to his family. His final decisions in this life reflected his strong faith in God and his abiding love, care and concern for Kathy and his family. May God’s grace be with them.
Jim Hughes
Manager, Training (retired)
The Apprentice School
Janet and Rick Holden
September 17, 2021
We are so sorry to learn of Dan´s passing. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his beautiful family. God bless you and give you peace.
Patsy Quinn
September 17, 2021
Kathy and family and friends of Danny's sorry for your lost. You have not lost Danny, he is just look from a better view. With prayers and for the family Patsy Quinn
Pat and Sally Krystyn
September 17, 2021
Truly a man of God. We are truly blessed to have known and worked with Danny at The Apprentice School. He will be missed by so many. Matthew 25:23 His lord said unto him, `Well done, good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy lord.´ Our deepest sympathies to Danny's family. Love and comfort during this time.
Alicia Uzzle
September 16, 2021
I met Danny in 2004 when I joined The Apprentice School family and I had the pleasure of working with him until he retired. Danny was one of the kindest people I have ever met. He never had a negative word for anyone and always saw the best in everyone. I pray for peace and comfort over his family. Danny will certainly be missed and his kindness treasured, and I know he is with our Heavenly Father while watching over his loved ones. My prayers and thoughts are with his lovely wife, children, and family.
Barry Seltzer
September 16, 2021
One of the kindest, honest men I have ever had the pleasure to work around! It didn’t matter if you were a laborer or a VP, Dan treated everyone with the same respect and knew your name. Prayers for the family during this time.
SB and Tonya Collins
September 16, 2021
Our deepest sympathies to the entire family, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Jo Ann Wydman and family
September 16, 2021
We are so sorry about this huge loss in your beautiful and loving Family. Please know you will all be in our thoughts and prayers as you endure this sad and heartbreaking time. Be Blessed and our deepest sympathies.
Brad & Doris Kelly
September 16, 2021
Dan was one of the most understanding, helpful, generous, kind and “ easy to get to know” individuals we have ever met. He always made everyone feel welcome and always thought of himself last . He will be sadly missed and memories will never fade of times spent with the Brookman family. May God bless this family.
David Davenport
September 16, 2021
Danny was one of the first people I met when I came to The Apprentice School in 2001. He was always looking out for us apprentices and was a great role model for all of us who went through the program.
Tony Kraus
September 16, 2021
May your wonderful memories help to temper your grief. I was privileged to count Danny as a friend and colleague at the apprentice school.
William Crocker
September 16, 2021
Sorry for your loss.
Showing 1 - 58 of 58 results
245 South Armistead Avenue, Hampton, VA 23669
Make a Donation
in Daniel Brookman's name
How to support Daniel's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Daniel Brookman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
